We are more than a bookshop . T he Common Press is Londo n's queer intersectional Bookshop café & Event s space. March The Common Press CIC is a not-for-profit queer bookshop café that means a lot of things to the community. As London's first consciously queer intersectional bookshop and events space, we provide a sanctuary and third space for literature, culture and for our LGBTQIA+ community to exist both during the day and at night in social settings. We are a radical and independent space that stands up for what we believe in and champions books by underrepresented authors and those from the Global majority. We host a diverse range of events every day, including dance classes, yoga sessions, book clubs, family-friendly events, book launches, workshops, and parties. Whether you're looking for the latest novels by your favourite gay, lesbian, queer, trans, and non-binary authors; seminal works of Black history; fourth-wave feminist theory; or that niche book on disability activism, we either have it or know how to get it fast. It's not just novels and theory, we also stock poetry, plays, graphic novels, and a great collection of books for children and young adults. And if, after all that browsing, you're feeling a bit tired, we make a pretty great coffee and cuppa as well. Book of the Month Looking for a Gift? Choose Here Sign up now Upcoming Events! If you'd like to see our upcoming events in a calendar format, you can click here . We also post monthly summaries of upcoming events to our instagram! 19/03/26 Mar Thursday The Queerly Autistic Workbook: Book Laun... 19:00 - 21:00 Button 23/03/26 Mar Monday Book Launch: the heart is a holding by L... 18:30 - 21:00 Button 25/03/26 Mar Wednesday Polystation: An Open Discussion on Redef... 19:00 - 21:00 Button 26/03/26 Mar Thursday Debut Book Launch: Bad Queer by Gayathir... 19:00 - 23:00 Button 08/04/26 Apr Wednesday Queer Writer's Circle 18:00 - 20:00 Button 11/04/26 Apr Saturday Bi+ Speed-Dating 18:00 - 22:00 Button See More EVENTS Interested in running an event with us? We run a huge range of events across the site, including book launches, club nights, panel discussions, and private parties. Please get in touch to discuss! Private Hire Read More

Book an Event If you want to speak to us about an event, please get in touch. Book an event with us: HERE Not sure who to contact? Whether it’s a general question, book request, event invite, partnership, filming, or anything else, fill out the form below and we’ll make sure it reaches the right person. For all event enquiries, please use the “Book an Event” button or link above. We are a small team and receive a high number of enquiries, please be patient in awaiting a response - we will get back to you as soon as possible! Contact Us First Name Last Name Pronouns Email Write a message My enquiry relates to: * Required Bookshop ----- Books + general info. Want to book an event? See event button above Media & Partnerships ----- Collaborations, Festivals & Private Events Other I want to subscribe to the newsletter. Submit Thank you for getting in touch with us. We will reach out soon.With love & solidarity, The Common Press Team Contact US

Private Hire Bring your vision to life at The Common Press From launches to parties, we've got you covered. Book Event Hire fees and venue specifications Full day hire - 09:00 am - 5:30 pm Half-day hire - 09:00 am - 12:00 pm Evening hire - 7:00 pm - late Extended and late times are available until 2 am. Please fill in the form here to start a conversation about your event. The Common Press has four spaces for hire. If you have a budget or you would like to collaborate with us please let us know so we can see what we can do. All pricing are community/charity rates and details for each space are below. **Note that VAT will be applied to hire fees** Unfortunately, our events space is no longer available for hire. The bookshop café is available for hire. Heading 1 Bookshop hire from £185 per hour Capacity: 45 seating | 70 stan ding Available Monday - All day Tuesday - Sunday from 7 pm - late alcoholic or non-alcoholic bar available. *Please note that VAT will be added to hire fees** Ideal for book events, open mic, panel discussions, parties & social gatherings. This space is wheelchair accessible. Includes venue hire + Staffing + Chairs + Tables + AV setup (Excludes VAT and sound technician) DJ decks £80 - DJ Pioneer XDJ RX - DJ Controller System Rekordbox. See full specs: https://www.pioneerdj.com/en-gb/product/all-in-one-system/archive/xdj-rx/black/overview/ Bar with staffing - available on request Sound Technician £15 per hour Security £150 for one security staff. Alcohol License and admin £50 (available with approval of management) EXTRAS Find us online! Instagram Books Instagram Accessibility Information Privacy Policy Visit us! The Common Press Bookshop 118 Bethnal Green Road London E2 6DG Opening Times Tuesday - Sunday: 11 AM - 6: 30PM Monday- CLOSED Open until late for events! Web Design by Alfonzo Sieveking Quick Site Navigation Home Events Private Hire Gift Guides Membership Shop Online Shop Gift Card Contact

EVENTS Book launches, poetry nights, cabaret, drag queen story time, pottery classes, yoga... pretty much anything you can think of is happening here! You can use the button on the right to toggle between list and calendar view. We hope to see you at one of our events soon! Calendar View The Queerly Autistic Workbook: Book Launch Thu 19 Mar More info RSVP Book Launch: the heart is a holding by Lateisha Davine Lovelace-Hanson Mon 23 Mar More info Buy Tickets Multiple Dates Polystation: An Open Discussion on Redefining Relationships Wed 25 Mar More info RSVP Debut Book Launch: Bad Queer by Gayathiri Kamalakanthan Thu 26 Mar More info RSVP Multiple Dates Queer Writer's Circle Wed 08 Apr More info Buy Tickets Multiple Dates Bi+ Speed-Dating Sat 11 Apr More info RSVP Queer Herbal Medicine: Blind Tea Tasting Sun 19 Apr More info Buy Tickets Queer Herbal Medicine: Blind Tea Tasting Sun 31 May More info Buy Tickets Queer Herbal Medicine: Blind Tea Tasting Sun 12 Jul More info Buy Tickets March 2026 Today Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun 23 24 25 26 27 28 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 19:00 The Queerly Autistic Workbook: Book Launch 20 21 22 23 18:30 Book Launch: the heart is a holding by Lateisha Davine Lovelace-Hanson 24 25 19:00 Polystation: An Open Discussion on Redefining Relationships 26 19:00 Debut Book Launch: Bad Queer by Gayathiri Kamalakanthan 27 28 29 30 31 1 2 3 4 5

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The Common Press Privacy Policy Our contact details Name: The Common Press CIC Address: 118 Bethnal Green Road, London, E2 6DG E-mail: books@commonpress.co.uk The type of personal information we collect We currently collect and process the following information: Personal identifiers, contacts and characteristics (for example, name and contact details) How we get the personal information and why we have it Most of the personal information we process is provided to us directly by you for one of the following reasons: To contact a member of our team To arrange an event with us To arrange a consultation for our book subscriptions We use the information that you have given us in order to contact you about your enquiry, and to fulfil book subscriptions. We will not share your information with third parties without your permission. Under the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR), the lawful bases we rely on for processing this information are: (a) Your consent. You are able to remove your consent at any time. You can do this by contacting us through the contact page on this website. (b) We have a legitimate interest. How we store your personal information Your information is securely stored. We keep all information for two years from your last point of contact. We will then dispose your information. Your data protection rights Under data protection law, you have rights including: Your right of access - You have the right to ask us for copies of your personal information. Your right to rectification - You have the right to ask us to rectify personal information you think is inaccurate. You also have the right to ask us to complete information you think is incomplete. Your right to erasure - You have the right to ask us to erase your personal information in certain circumstances. Your right to restriction of processing - You have the right to ask us to restrict the processing of your personal information in certain circumstances. Your right to object to processing - You have the the right to object to the processing of your personal information in certain circumstances. Your right to data portability - You have the right to ask that we transfer the personal information you gave us to another organisation, or to you, in certain circumstances. You are not required to pay any charge for exercising your rights. If you make a request, we have one month to respond to you. Please contact us via books@commonpress.co.uk to make a request. How to complain If you have any concerns about our use of your personal information, you can make a complaint to us, either by writing to us at: The Common Press 118 Bethnal Green Road London E2 6DG Or by using the contact form on this website. You can also complain to the ICO if you are unhappy with how we have used your data. The ICO’s address: Information Commissioner’s Office Wycliffe House Water Lane Wilmslow Cheshire SK9 5AF Helpline number: 0303 123 1113 ICO website: https://www.ico.org.uk This policy is effective from the 23rd of May 2022.

Job Vacancies - CLOSED Applications for Events Manager and Bookseller are now closed. Unfortunately, we are unable to respond to every candidate, if you don't hear from us by 29th November 2024, it is unlikely you have not been selected this time around. Events Manager We are seeking a part-time, seasonal Events Manager to support our busy schedule. This is a temporary position, working 3-4 days per week until February 2025, with the possibility of an extension. The ideal candidate will be highly organized, with 3-5 years of experience in event management or operations. This role requires both remote and in-person work. You will be responsible for the overall planning, coordination, and execution of events, ensuring they run smoothly and meet both client and organizational expectations. Events must align with our organization's values and target audience. We are looking for someone who is comfortable engaging with a wide range of people and can demonstrate a high degree of professionalism. Many of our events take place in the evening, so the ability to work late is essential. Candidates with previous experience in event hosting, strong communication skills, and a background in event management or administrative work will be highly valued. You will report to the management team. Key Responsibilities: Developing event concepts, timelines, and schedules. Booking and programming events and assisting with events setup and pack down. Tracking expenses and ensuring cost-effective events. Building partnerships with external venues. Overseeing event marketing strategies, including coordinating with the Social Media Manager, writing newsletters, and maintaining relationships with partners and organizations. Ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations. Analyzing event successes and failures, providing feedback for improvement and future development. Candidate Requirements: Previous experience working at night and events. Strong interpersonal skills. Excellent multitasking abilities and organizational skills. Attention to detail. Confidence in interacting with the public and staff members. Proficiency with Microsoft Office suite. Applicants selected for an interview will be contacted via email. Due to the anticipated volume of applications, we regret that only those shortlisted will be contacted. £27,000-30,000 pro rata Application closes on Thursday 7th November 2024 at 11:59 pm If you have any questions: please email: gm@commonpress.co.uk £27,000 - £30,000 pro rata (up to 4 days per week) Apply Now Weekend Bookseller £13.15p/hour We’re looking for a bookseller to join our team. This is a seasonal, part-time weekend position, currently planned until February 2025, with the possibility of an extension. The ideal candidate will have a strong interest in a diverse range of queer literature that champions LGBTQIA+ authors, Black and POC writers, the global majority, and disabled people. They must also be comfortable working with a diverse range of colleagues and customers. Responsibilities include proactively engaging with customers on the shop floor, recommending books, checking in, and shelving new stock. The role requires supporting our busy events schedule, which includes regular evening events. Standard working hours will include some evening shifts. Additionally, booksellers will be expected to assist in serving drinks, while barista skills are a plus, they are not essential. The bookshop is often very busy, so the successful candidate must be comfortable in a dynamic and active working environment. Previous bookselling experience is highly valued but not essential. Bookselling training will be provided, including barista training. The Common Press pays the London Living Wage. Applicants will be invited to interview by email. Due to the anticipated volume of applications, we regret that only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Candidates who pass the interview stage will be offered a paid trial shift to assess how they interact with customers, regardless of the outcome. Application closes on Thursday 7th November 2024 at 11:59 pm If you have any questions: please email: gm@commonpress.co.uk Apply Now

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How to find us "Oh, toto, there's no place like home." Directions: It's pretty easy to get to us. Just up the road from Boxpark Shoreditch, we're about fifteen minutes from Old Street Station in one direction and Bethnal Green Station in the other, or twenty minutes if you're walking from Aldgate East. Buses number 8 and 388 stop right outside our front door. You can click on the map below to open it in Google Maps and get directions. We can't wait to see you! Accessibility: The entrance to the bookshop is 90cm wide. The entrance to the bar is 100cm wide. The ground floor is completely wheelchair accessible , with no steps or slopes. We have wheelchair accessible toilets too. We are a dog-friendly business. Service animals of any kind are welcome across the site. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to get in touch with us on commonpressbooks@gmail.com Opening Times: Tues to Sun - 11 AM - 6: 30 PM Closed on Mondays Open on late for events. Private hire available all week. o

Staff Availability Who are you? Choose an option OCTOBER Please indicate any days you are not available to work this month How many shifts or hours would you like as a maximum for this week? Please do not put down less than your contracted hours, unless discussed with Freddie directly. Thank you Submit

Terms and Conditions for Event Organisers Thank you for coordinating an event with The Common Press! We're thrilled about our collaboration and the opportunity to bring your vision to life. Hosting an event or session at The Common Press is always a joy for both attendees and organizers. The safety and security of our staff and customers are our top priorities, and by hosting an event with us, you agree to the following terms, conditions, and cancellation policy. By hosting an event, session, workshop, or movement class at The Common Press, you agree to the following terms and conditions: Organiser Responsibilities In advance of my event, I agree and confirm: I will arrive at least 1 hour (recommended) or 30 minutes before my event start times to do any setup required. I understand it is my responsibility to provide the number of guests attending the event at least 48 hours in advance and provide any tech or setup requirements no later than 72 hours before my event. If I fail to provide relevant information or details in advance I understand that whilst staff will try to accommodate changes, it is not guaranteed that changes will be made on the day. I understand that running my event on the day is my responsibility and staff members are only able to assist with book sales, providing beverages, and assisting with basic tech support as I understand they are not sound technicians. For live music events, cabaret, and any event with performers, I will pay for a sound technician (agreed by staff) or have people available to support the night. I am responsible for checking and welcoming my guests as well as starting and ending my event or session on time. Myself and all other external organizers associated with my event will treat both the staff and customers of The Common Press with respect and courtesy. Myself and all other external organizers associated with my event will treat the premises with appropriate care and will not damage the premises or its equipment. Any necessary tech support will be provided by a member of the staff. I will pay the agreed hire fee + VAT at least 1 week before my event or session unless a prior agreement has been made with the management team. If you require a longer payment date, please inform us. Prohibited Items I understand that the following items are prohibited throughout The Common Press, and I will not bring them onto the site: Open flames, candles, and incense sticks. Fog machines, misters, or any equipment with the potential to trigger standard fire alarms. Recreational drugs. Blades and other items that could be used as offensive weapons. Alcohol unless agreed upon by prior arrangement with the management. Equipment and Liability I guarantee that any electrical equipment brought onto the premises is safe to use, and The Common Press will not be held liable for unsafe equipment. I understand that if the terms of this agreement are broken, my event may be canceled, and event organizers asked to leave. I will still be required to pay any agreed hire fees or similar. I also understand that I may be liable for the cost of repairs if any damages occur as a result of my event. Cleanliness / Tidying up As the organizer, I will not leave the premises in an unclean or messy condition. I will take away and remove all the items I brought in and I will dispose of rubbish in the bins provided. The Common Press is not liable for any property left on-site or unattended. I understand that if any part of the site is left in an inappropriate condition, this will be documented, and there will be a cleaning charge of at least £100. Safety My guests and I will pay attention to any communication from staff during my event and will respond appropriately. In the unlikely event of an emergency, my guests and I will follow staff instructions and evacuate the premises according to their directions. Time Management I understand that events are booked in allocated hourly slots, and if my event overruns, this can impact other customers. If I anticipate my event will overrun, I will find a member of staff and check whether this can be accommodated. If I fail to do this, The Common Press will charge a late fee of 1.5x the hourly rate for each hour my event runs over. I further understand that The Common Press closes at 10 pm unless otherwise stated, and if my event goes past 10 pm, The Common Press will add a non-negotiable fee of £20 for every 10 minutes added to my booking. Marketing and Media Use I understand that it is my responsibility to provide any event poster and ticket links to The Common Press to assist with social media promotion as soon as possible and no later than 10 days before my event. I am aware The Common Press is not responsible for marketing by event, and I will tag the relevant social media channels for reposts. I understand it is not guaranteed that my event will be shared on the grid. I am aware that The Common Press may take photographs or videos of the event happening, and these may be used on social media to promote the event and the venue. I agree that if I do not want the use of any media, I will confirm in writing. I will also notify The Common Press team if any guests do not want their photos or videos taken. Ethical Partnership & Shared Values Policy At our event space, we are committed to fostering respectful, transparent, and mutually supportive relationships with all partners, collaborators, and guests. We believe that successful events are built on trust, clear communication, and shared values. In light of the ongoing situation in Palestine, which the United Nations has described as a genocide, we want to ensure that our values are aligned with those of the individuals and organisations we work with. Our intention in asking is to make sure that our work and partnerships reflect shared commitments to anti-apartheid, anti-colonialism, anti-zionism, anti-fascism, justice, liberation, and compassion. As part of this commitment, we ask all partners to uphold the following principles when working with us : Respect & Inclusivity: Treat all team members, guests, and collaborators with respect. We maintain an inclusive environment that welcomes diverse identities, backgrounds, and experiences. Integrity & Transparency: Communicate openly, honestly, and promptly regarding event needs, expectations, and any changes that may arise. Sustainability & Responsibility: Work with us to reduce environmental impact, support ethical sourcing, and care for the space and surrounding community. Collaboration & Accountability: Approach challenges cooperatively and take responsibility for decisions, actions, and use of the venue. Wellbeing & Safety: Support a safe and healthy environment by following all relevant health, safety, and safeguarding guidelines. Cancellation and Rescheduling Policies I acknowledge that if I cancel my event within 7 days of its planned date, there will be no refund, but alternative dates to reschedule within 6 months will be offered. I will have to pay the hire fee for canceling if I do not want to reschedule the event. We reserve the right to withdraw from or cancel an event should organisers or partners fail to align with our shared values and ethical principles. I confirm that i have read and understand all the terms and conditions above and by also booking an event or session at The Common Press i have agreed to the terms.